SOULBOUND’s latest offering, “obsYdian,” marks a triumphant return for the band, capturing their journey over the past few years with an exceptional array of musical prowess. This new album arrives four years after their last release and showcases an evolved sound, blending heavy metal with industrial and electronic influences in an innovative manner that keeps the listener on their toes.
The album opens with the instrumental title track, “obsYdian,” which sets the tone with its dark, atmospheric buildup. It seamlessly transitions into “Burn,” a track that echoes the essence of Wednesday 13. There’s a raw energy here that immediately hooks you in, making you eager for what follows.
“Insane” is a highlight, featuring a collaboration with Chris Harms of Lord of the Lost. This track brings back memories of the band’s remarkable 2020 release, “Addicted To Hell,” with all the signature elements of a Lord of the Lost album. Harms’s contribution adds a unique layer of depth, making it a standout piece on the album.
As the tempo shifts with “Isolate” and “Heartless,” SOULBOUND demonstrates their ability to explore different musical terrains without losing momentum. “Heartless” in particular captivates with its layered atmospherics and vocal effects, evoking a cinematic experience reminiscent of an Anne Rice film soundtrack.
“Paralyzed” reintroduces the high-energy tempo with electronic elements that keep you engaged. The instrumentation here is flawless, each beat and note meticulously crafted to deliver a thrilling auditory experience.
The album’s closing tracks, “Remain (Part 1)” and “Remain (Part 2),” encapsulate the essence of “obsYdian.” These ten-minute pieces are beautifully constructed to provide a reflective end to the album’s dark and intense journey, showcasing SOULBOUND’s skill in maintaining a cohesive yet dynamic sound throughout.
The zenith of the album is undoubtedly “Forever In The Dark.” With its swirling keyboards, compelling vocals, and pulsating beats, this track stands out as the epitome of SOULBOUND’s prowess. Its anthemic qualities are likely to keep listeners hitting repeat, embodying the album’s dark and captivating spirit.
“Saint Sinner” maintains the momentum, delivering another round of anthemic excellence before transitioning into “Lioness,” a track that solidifies the album’s impact. Here, SOULBOUND exceeds all expectations, closing the album on a high note and ensuring that their latest effort will be remembered.
“obsYdian” is an album that truly demands to be experienced live. SOULBOUND has crafted a masterpiece that not only reflects their journey over the past years but also pushes the boundaries of their musical capabilities. With themes ranging from inner demons to socially critical observations, this album is a multifaceted mirror reflecting both the band’s dark sides and possibilities for healing and transformation.
The production quality enhances the album’s dark elegance, thanks in part to the mixing and mastering expertise of seasoned professionals. This ensures that every track shines, presenting SOULBOUND at their absolute best.
In conclusion, “obsYdian” is a perfect metaphor for SOULBOUND’s work as musicians: dark, mysterious, reflective, and transformative. This album is not just a collection of songs; it is an expression of the band’s development and artistic vision. With “obsYdian,” SOULBOUND has created an unforgettable listening experience that stands as a testament to their growth and creativity.
Final Rating: 10/10
MORE INFO:
www.soulbound.de
www.facebook.com/musicsoulbound
www.metalville.de
www.facebook.com/metalville
